Well, it's at the end of 2007 and these are my collected thoughts on my experiences in the past year.
CAREER
Back when I got my first job, working at Wendy's back in Great Falls, Mt, I made myself a promise. I promised myself that I would make a certain amount of money at a job by the time I reached 30 years of age. I have reached that mark and there are no signs that I have leveled off. I was given my first lead. Magtheridon's Lair is set to release in a week. It is difficult to measure success in this industry. If your product sells out, it could mean it was popular. It could also mean that the print run was small or that there was an additional bonus included in the product and that's why it sold, not based on gameplay? Is the product considered a success at that point? I would think so. I am lucky to have my designs published, there are many designer who aren't as lucky.
I am also Lead Designing my first full set for the World of Warcraft TCG. It will be Set 8 (not yet named). It will be out Spring of 09. I promise that it will chocked full of goodness. No spoilers yet.
I am on a very good R/D team. I get along with everyone on the team and I think they are all excellent at what they do. I hope our product continues to flourish.
Family
Marnie and I are enjoying California. We are moving away from our crappy apartment complex at the end of January. We are moving into a house that was made into a duplex. We will be sharing a kitchen with the other tenants. They are dog lovers so we think it's going to be amazing living there. We are paying the exact same in rent, going down a bathroom and a bedroom, but we are gaining a front yard. We can let the dogs out without having to leash them. We haven't been to Disneyland yet, which I know is a shame. We have been to the beach several times though. Both Melli and Grizzli are doing great and are healthy.
Health
I had a brief stint in a behavioral health facility back in November. This was part of the reason why I haven't been updating my blog regularly. I had some mental issues that I needed taking care of. It has been a long and painful process but I am back on the right road. Getting in to see a shrink has been a pain in my ass. I am on some medication now to help with some old problems and some new ones. Things are going better. As for the weight thing, my new medication is supposed to give me more energy as well as help me to keep focused. I plan on re-embarking on this venture.
WoW
Earnheart has been moved to Icecrown and is helping Dungeon Crawl progress. I changed his name because the joke wasn't as funny as it used to be and this mofo is clearly a force to be reckoned with. I also have Kaniya, who used to be Callyleia, and is now going to be a pvp player. Marnie got her paladin, Addisyn, up to 70 and she went from 800 to over 1200 healing a couple of nights ago in Kara. We still have multiple 70s on the Alliance side of Icecrown as well. WoW is still fun and we haven't grown tired of it yet.
Not much else went on in 2007. Another year gone. None of my sports teams did particularly well. I don't think there was anything really defining about the year that would make it stand out from any other year.
Goals for 2008
Continue to grow as a Game Designer and be more confident in my ability to design. Not have a nervous breakdown when I turn 30 years old. Marnie and I are looking forward to celebrating our 12th wedding anniversary (we are talking about renewing our vows). Lose a ton of weight and meet my goal. Just basically keep on, keeping on.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Page 92
For those of you in the know, you know what is on page 92. This was a very fun weekend and the first time that I was able to meet these guys face to face (I know, how unfortunate for them).
It's a shame they weren't smiling as much on Sunday.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Captain's Log
So it's a couple days late, but here are my thoughts about Captain's Log. However, before I do this, I forgot to mention another important person that helped me out during that time. Justin Beal was an integral part of this time period in Trek and a good friend.
One of the big things that I loved to do to get inspiration was just watch episodes. Just random episodes, during work, at home, anytime I could. I would write down what I thought was a good scene to do a screen pull from and go back and get that as an image. This is some of my favorite images from Captain's Log (For Reference - see this link for all the cards.
A Pattern of Lies - Another great face to face shot from the Trek universe.
Chameloid Chicanery - that's how she got out of the shackles (this was more about the title I think).
Nose to Nose - YEA!!! another cool face to face shot and an homage to other dilemmas that were similar.
Warp-Speed Transfer - it's cool for what it is, but could have been much better if we could show Tucker between them.
Larson - You may think that this is just a relatively lame personnel shot, but you have no idea how many hours went into getting this screen capture and then having art clean it up the best they can. This guy was on screen for a split second and there was just a split second when he wasn't moving. There was a lot of effort put into this one shot.
Worf/Jadzia in Red - This was orginally supposed to be promo cards (not sure if they were the sales incentive or not). This was a great pairing of images and worked really well on cardboard as well. I hope to explore these image pairings more in my current job, i think they look really well and players/collectors are pleasantly surprised when they notice them.
Quark's Treasure - It is really hard to get an action shot with some blur in it. I think this was an exceptional pull and if I remember right, suggested this design back during Necessary Evil or maybe Strange New Worlds. It wasn't the right time for it, but with Quark being the captain, it seemed to fit better in this set.
And of course, images that I wish could have been better, but the Decipher art department did a great job cleaning up nonetheless.
Compassionate Interference - jeez, blurry and was pulled in too far.
Krayton - another horrible image, but this was zoomed in and unblurred as much as possible.
As for the design of the set, the players loved Captains and Ships, so it was easy to give players more of what they loved, including some that they thought they might never see (Enterprise-C). I'm going to be honest here in that I felt that I did a better job on the previous set than I did with Captain's Log.
Next time, I'll talk a bit about boutique sets that were done under my watch.
One of the big things that I loved to do to get inspiration was just watch episodes. Just random episodes, during work, at home, anytime I could. I would write down what I thought was a good scene to do a screen pull from and go back and get that as an image. This is some of my favorite images from Captain's Log (For Reference - see this link for all the cards.
A Pattern of Lies - Another great face to face shot from the Trek universe.
Chameloid Chicanery - that's how she got out of the shackles (this was more about the title I think).
Nose to Nose - YEA!!! another cool face to face shot and an homage to other dilemmas that were similar.
Warp-Speed Transfer - it's cool for what it is, but could have been much better if we could show Tucker between them.
Larson - You may think that this is just a relatively lame personnel shot, but you have no idea how many hours went into getting this screen capture and then having art clean it up the best they can. This guy was on screen for a split second and there was just a split second when he wasn't moving. There was a lot of effort put into this one shot.
Worf/Jadzia in Red - This was orginally supposed to be promo cards (not sure if they were the sales incentive or not). This was a great pairing of images and worked really well on cardboard as well. I hope to explore these image pairings more in my current job, i think they look really well and players/collectors are pleasantly surprised when they notice them.
Quark's Treasure - It is really hard to get an action shot with some blur in it. I think this was an exceptional pull and if I remember right, suggested this design back during Necessary Evil or maybe Strange New Worlds. It wasn't the right time for it, but with Quark being the captain, it seemed to fit better in this set.
And of course, images that I wish could have been better, but the Decipher art department did a great job cleaning up nonetheless.
Compassionate Interference - jeez, blurry and was pulled in too far.
Krayton - another horrible image, but this was zoomed in and unblurred as much as possible.
As for the design of the set, the players loved Captains and Ships, so it was easy to give players more of what they loved, including some that they thought they might never see (Enterprise-C). I'm going to be honest here in that I felt that I did a better job on the previous set than I did with Captain's Log.
Next time, I'll talk a bit about boutique sets that were done under my watch.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
All Good Things...
must come to an end.
I'm not going to talk about why they did this or how long this has been coming because..well, I don't know. Outside of chatting it up with one of my BFF, I don't really know what's going on there anymore. They still owe me money, but it's been a couple years and I don't think they are going to make good on it.
What I will talk about is the game. During the Black Year (2005), I was left with the task of being Lead Designer for both of Decipher's flagship products, LOTR:TCG and StarTrek2E. I couldn't have done it without the help I received (especially from Plaine, Kirk, Keller). I remember when I was sitting down to continue to design To Boldly Go (it was already partially done). I was thinking to myself, "how was I going to be able to do this without the grandfathers of trek?" It was going to be difficult, especially since I wasn't as experienced as my predecessors. I mean c'mon, my first trek design was this stainer card and we all know how much play that saw. I think my favorite cards based on gameplay from To Boldly Go were -
Go Big or Go Home
I have a soft spot for mini games
They aren't that bad...no really, they aren't
How about my favorite cards from an art/thematic/Girard point -
I love it when the picture tells the story
prettyblatent although, I don't know why I penciled myself in as the dead guy.
homage to Corbin
Wife's maiden name
Mikey makes an appearance
Kicked in the Knee!!!
and the Shoehorn card of the set - Data Chip this was not my finest hour.
I will talk about other sets I was lucky enough to work on tomorrow.
I'm not going to talk about why they did this or how long this has been coming because..well, I don't know. Outside of chatting it up with one of my BFF, I don't really know what's going on there anymore. They still owe me money, but it's been a couple years and I don't think they are going to make good on it.
What I will talk about is the game. During the Black Year (2005), I was left with the task of being Lead Designer for both of Decipher's flagship products, LOTR:TCG and StarTrek2E. I couldn't have done it without the help I received (especially from Plaine, Kirk, Keller). I remember when I was sitting down to continue to design To Boldly Go (it was already partially done). I was thinking to myself, "how was I going to be able to do this without the grandfathers of trek?" It was going to be difficult, especially since I wasn't as experienced as my predecessors. I mean c'mon, my first trek design was this stainer card and we all know how much play that saw. I think my favorite cards based on gameplay from To Boldly Go were -
Go Big or Go Home
I have a soft spot for mini games
They aren't that bad...no really, they aren't
How about my favorite cards from an art/thematic/Girard point -
I love it when the picture tells the story
prettyblatent although, I don't know why I penciled myself in as the dead guy.
homage to Corbin
Wife's maiden name
Mikey makes an appearance
Kicked in the Knee!!!
and the Shoehorn card of the set - Data Chip this was not my finest hour.
I will talk about other sets I was lucky enough to work on tomorrow.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
MRIs suck
So I went and got an MRI yesterday. My shoulders were too wide for the regular donut, so they moved me to the open scanner. The problem was the open one took 45 minutes. The doctor strapped me in and we chatted about Williams AFB (he was there in the late 70s). He finished by putting a plastic grid over my face, kinda like a football helmet, only closer to my face. About 30 minutes in, he needed to inject me with something and couldn't find a vein. I could tell he used to be military medicine because he liked to dig around in the arm, rather than start somewhere fresh. After failing a couple times in my right arm, he moved to my left hand. Another 15 minutes and I was done. Those suck.
Hopefully I'll get my results in a week or two. They are checking to see if my low testosterone is something wrong with my pituitary gland, rather than the reproductive organs.
Hopefully I'll get my results in a week or two. They are checking to see if my low testosterone is something wrong with my pituitary gland, rather than the reproductive organs.
Monday, November 26, 2007
MNF - Girard vs. McGregor
Well, the Dolphins are playing against the Steelers. I don't even know what the spread is. I stopped watching football when I drafted Shawn Alexander and Travis Henry in my main fantasy league (thank goodness I have Romo in that league too). I do know that the Patriots are going off and somehow the rag-tag bunch of Packers are playing well. With all that being said, I'm watching tonite and rooting for the Dolphins to not go o'fer. I think they have a legit chance to win tonite.
And for those that went to Hometown Heroes in VA, yes, I will be clapping/cheering after every first down.
And for those that went to Hometown Heroes in VA, yes, I will be clapping/cheering after every first down.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Things are better
for those of you that knew where I was, I am out and am better. Thank you for all of your thoughts. Things are better.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Friday, November 09, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
On the streets of ...this crappy city
I'm in Philadelphia this weekend, gunslinging and crushing players dreams with the Molten Core raid deck. I haven't been doing as well as I would have liked with the gunslinging, but I'm still undefeated with the raid deck.
This city sucks. I think it just might be the whole east coast. The weather here has been atrocious. It has rained pretty much the whole time. The buildings are all old and seem run down. The service is horrible. Heaven forbid that the waitress had to break up her conversation with the cook to just come and take our order. It just doesn't seem like anyone cares and doesn't really want to put forth the effort.
There is one saving grace - The Reading Terminal Market. This place is right across the street from the convention center and it's basically an indoor flea market for food. They have pretty much every kind of food you can think of there. The Amish breakfast was damn good, who knew that they could do eggs/bacon/toast so damn well. Had the chinese and it was tasty goodness. Even went for some overpriced cookies and they were pretty ridiculous as well. Only redeeming quality of this city IMO.
Marnie is ok back home. The fires didn't threaten our house all that much after all. Her and the girls are doing fine and I'll be back in town Monday afternoon.
This city sucks. I think it just might be the whole east coast. The weather here has been atrocious. It has rained pretty much the whole time. The buildings are all old and seem run down. The service is horrible. Heaven forbid that the waitress had to break up her conversation with the cook to just come and take our order. It just doesn't seem like anyone cares and doesn't really want to put forth the effort.
There is one saving grace - The Reading Terminal Market. This place is right across the street from the convention center and it's basically an indoor flea market for food. They have pretty much every kind of food you can think of there. The Amish breakfast was damn good, who knew that they could do eggs/bacon/toast so damn well. Had the chinese and it was tasty goodness. Even went for some overpriced cookies and they were pretty ridiculous as well. Only redeeming quality of this city IMO.
Marnie is ok back home. The fires didn't threaten our house all that much after all. Her and the girls are doing fine and I'll be back in town Monday afternoon.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
And SoCal continues to burn
Work was closed today, I have been glued to the TV. There was a new fire that cropped up out by Palomar Mountain, the Poomacha Fire (SE of the Fallbrook fire). This fire, as I type this, is quickly becoming huge, it is just burning through houses out there. Supposedly, if this fire combines with the Fallbrook fire, the 76 corridor could be in trouble. I'll keep you posted, but for now we are ok.
View Larger Map
View Larger Map
Monday, October 22, 2007
Yea...so I'm not burning yet
Yea, it's really really close. A buddy of mine's wife is a teacher and her school is closed.
The sky is half black with smoke. Big wall of smoke. Marnie and I aren't threatened...yet.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
* UPDATE *
So I haven't posted here in awhile, almost a month now. I never meant to let it lax this long. Here are a couple updates from me.
- The Colorado Rockies -
Jeez, talk about a hot team. I wasn't able to watch most of the Dbacks/Rockies series but the small amount that I did see the Rockies just looked better. They are streaking like hell and should go on to win the World Series. I thought Arizona was a better team, but it didn't matter. I think that if it's Indians/Rockies, it will be the least watched World Series in the history of the MLB.
- Vera -
Marnie's grandmother, Vera Corr, recently passed away. Marnie and I are in mourning and Marnie is sad that she wasn't able to get a hold of her a week ago. I thought Vera was a very strong woman and was always very kind to me, even though I don't think she liked me to start. She saw how I treated Marnie and she knew that Marnie was happy with me so that made her happy as well. I am very disappointed with how her affairs are being taken care of. It would seem like her children are just rushing to put her to rest and I don't know if they really knew what her wishes were. Marnie is sad over the way it is being handled and I am sad as well. Marnie and I are planning to visit, probably next spring or summer to pay our respects.
- My health -
I have been on a couple different medications for a couple weeks now. I had a bad episode about 2-3 weeks ago where I feel that I was stuck in a rut and needed to get out. It wasn't as bad as it was in Arizona before I started to see my shrink, but it was down there. I went and got tested and learned that I was low on testosterone in my system. So the doctor prescribed Andro as well as some anti-depressants. The Andro comes in the form of a patch which I have to rotate the location of so it doesn't irritate my skin to much. I must say it is annoying, but for the first week I could definitely feel the effects. It wasn't as if my blood was boiling, but it was warmer overall and I just felt different. It is too bad that I won't be able to race in the Tour de France now, but on the brightside, I could start setting homerun records any day now.
- My Weight -
It hasn't be going down lately. I actually haven't weighed in for a couple weeks now and I'm afraid that I gained some weight. Marnie has been fixing my meals so I have been eating at regular intervals and the medication has helped the boredom/nervous eating a bit. I'm really going to have to buckle down if I want to hit my goal.
- 30th Anniversary -
Happy 30th Anniversary Mr. Lucas. I will continue to spend money on your franchise as I am still a big fan.
- The Colorado Rockies -
Jeez, talk about a hot team. I wasn't able to watch most of the Dbacks/Rockies series but the small amount that I did see the Rockies just looked better. They are streaking like hell and should go on to win the World Series. I thought Arizona was a better team, but it didn't matter. I think that if it's Indians/Rockies, it will be the least watched World Series in the history of the MLB.
- Vera -
Marnie's grandmother, Vera Corr, recently passed away. Marnie and I are in mourning and Marnie is sad that she wasn't able to get a hold of her a week ago. I thought Vera was a very strong woman and was always very kind to me, even though I don't think she liked me to start. She saw how I treated Marnie and she knew that Marnie was happy with me so that made her happy as well. I am very disappointed with how her affairs are being taken care of. It would seem like her children are just rushing to put her to rest and I don't know if they really knew what her wishes were. Marnie is sad over the way it is being handled and I am sad as well. Marnie and I are planning to visit, probably next spring or summer to pay our respects.
- My health -
I have been on a couple different medications for a couple weeks now. I had a bad episode about 2-3 weeks ago where I feel that I was stuck in a rut and needed to get out. It wasn't as bad as it was in Arizona before I started to see my shrink, but it was down there. I went and got tested and learned that I was low on testosterone in my system. So the doctor prescribed Andro as well as some anti-depressants. The Andro comes in the form of a patch which I have to rotate the location of so it doesn't irritate my skin to much. I must say it is annoying, but for the first week I could definitely feel the effects. It wasn't as if my blood was boiling, but it was warmer overall and I just felt different. It is too bad that I won't be able to race in the Tour de France now, but on the brightside, I could start setting homerun records any day now.
- My Weight -
It hasn't be going down lately. I actually haven't weighed in for a couple weeks now and I'm afraid that I gained some weight. Marnie has been fixing my meals so I have been eating at regular intervals and the medication has helped the boredom/nervous eating a bit. I'm really going to have to buckle down if I want to hit my goal.
- 30th Anniversary -
Happy 30th Anniversary Mr. Lucas. I will continue to spend money on your franchise as I am still a big fan.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
F Football, I'm watching NBC
Chuck
I had my reservations about this show, but I think it delivered. It has a couple B list actors and I don't know how long they can pull of the charade, but it had plenty of good one liners and he sold me on being a nerd. Obviously his ring tong was awesome!
Heroes
Jeez, this show just keeps delivering. Did you see Nathan bump into Ando? Marnie did, even before I pointed it out to her. I love this show. Who is Nathan, is it Sylar? Was Peter meant to be found by the irish guys? Is poor Hiro gonna be locked in feudal Japan all season? I hope not. This show continues to be an A in my book.
oh...and I really really wanna buy a Nissan Rogue. No idea why, but I feel compelled to go out and buy one.
I had my reservations about this show, but I think it delivered. It has a couple B list actors and I don't know how long they can pull of the charade, but it had plenty of good one liners and he sold me on being a nerd. Obviously his ring tong was awesome!
Heroes
Jeez, this show just keeps delivering. Did you see Nathan bump into Ando? Marnie did, even before I pointed it out to her. I love this show. Who is Nathan, is it Sylar? Was Peter meant to be found by the irish guys? Is poor Hiro gonna be locked in feudal Japan all season? I hope not. This show continues to be an A in my book.
oh...and I really really wanna buy a Nissan Rogue. No idea why, but I feel compelled to go out and buy one.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Week 3
Last week was tough, there were a couple upsets. Who knew that Cleveland would wake up and put up big points vs. Cincy. I ended up going 10 for 15, which is only good for 67%. This week has to be better.
Date & Time Favorite Spread Underdog
9/23 1:00 ET Indianapolis -6 At Houston
9/23 1:00 ET San Diego -5.5 At Green Bay
9/23 1:00 ET At Kansas City -3 Minnesota
9/23 1:00 ET At Philadelphia -6 Detroit
9/23 1:00 ET At New England -16.5 Buffalo
9/23 1:00 ET At NY Jets -3 Miami
9/23 1:00 ET At Pittsburgh -9.5 San Francisco
9/23 1:00 ET At Baltimore -7.5 Arizona
9/23 1:00 ET At Tampa Bay -3.5 St. Louis
9/23 4:05 ET At Denver -3 Jacksonville
9/23 4:05 ET At Seattle -3 Cincinnati
9/23 4:05 ET At Oakland -3 Cleveland
9/23 4:15 ET Carolina -4 At Atlanta
9/23 4:15 ET At Washington -3.5 NY Giants
9/23 8:15 ET At Chicago -3 Dallas
Monday Night Football Point Spread
9/24 8:30 ET At New Orleans -4 Tennessee
It will be a miracle if I win 11 this week.
Date & Time Favorite Spread Underdog
9/23 1:00 ET Indianapolis -6 At Houston
9/23 1:00 ET San Diego -5.5 At Green Bay
9/23 1:00 ET At Kansas City -3 Minnesota
9/23 1:00 ET At Philadelphia -6 Detroit
9/23 1:00 ET At New England -16.5 Buffalo
9/23 1:00 ET At NY Jets -3 Miami
9/23 1:00 ET At Pittsburgh -9.5 San Francisco
9/23 1:00 ET At Baltimore -7.5 Arizona
9/23 1:00 ET At Tampa Bay -3.5 St. Louis
9/23 4:05 ET At Denver -3 Jacksonville
9/23 4:05 ET At Seattle -3 Cincinnati
9/23 4:05 ET At Oakland -3 Cleveland
9/23 4:15 ET Carolina -4 At Atlanta
9/23 4:15 ET At Washington -3.5 NY Giants
9/23 8:15 ET At Chicago -3 Dallas
Monday Night Football Point Spread
9/24 8:30 ET At New Orleans -4 Tennessee
It will be a miracle if I win 11 this week.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Week 2
The AZ lose put me below 80% last week. Still over 70% so it wasn't that bad. The week was easier though, here are my pics for week 2.
Date & Time Favorite Spread Underdog
9/16 1:00 ET At Pittsburgh -10 Buffalo
9/16 1:00 ET Cincinnati -7.5 At Cleveland
9/16 1:00 ET Indianapolis -7 At Tennessee
9/16 1:00 ET At Carolina -6.5 Houston
9/16 1:00 ET At St. Louis -3 San Francisco
9/16 1:00 ET At NY Giants -2.5 Green Bay
9/16 1:00 ET At Jacksonville -10.5 Atlanta
9/16 1:00 ET New Orleans -4 At Tampa Bay
9/16 4:05 ET At Detroit -3 Minnesota
9/16 4:05 ET Dallas -4 At Miami
9/16 4:05 ET Seattle -3 At Arizona
9/16 4:15 ET At Baltimore -10 NY Jets
9/16 4:15 ET At Denver -10 Oakland
9/16 4:15 ET At Chicago -12 Kansas City
9/16 8:15 ET At New England -3.5 San Diego
Monday Night Football Point Spread
9/17 8:30 ET At Philadelphia -7 Washington
Not many upsets this week. You have to be careful when picking upsets, you can't force them.
Date & Time Favorite Spread Underdog
9/16 1:00 ET At Pittsburgh -10 Buffalo
9/16 1:00 ET Cincinnati -7.5 At Cleveland
9/16 1:00 ET Indianapolis -7 At Tennessee
9/16 1:00 ET At Carolina -6.5 Houston
9/16 1:00 ET At St. Louis -3 San Francisco
9/16 1:00 ET At NY Giants -2.5 Green Bay
9/16 1:00 ET At Jacksonville -10.5 Atlanta
9/16 1:00 ET New Orleans -4 At Tampa Bay
9/16 4:05 ET At Detroit -3 Minnesota
9/16 4:05 ET Dallas -4 At Miami
9/16 4:05 ET Seattle -3 At Arizona
9/16 4:15 ET At Baltimore -10 NY Jets
9/16 4:15 ET At Denver -10 Oakland
9/16 4:15 ET At Chicago -12 Kansas City
9/16 8:15 ET At New England -3.5 San Diego
Monday Night Football Point Spread
9/17 8:30 ET At Philadelphia -7 Washington
Not many upsets this week. You have to be careful when picking upsets, you can't force them.
We are official california residents
Went to the DMV today to get licenses and registration for both vehicles. Marnie has been worried this whole time because you have to take a written test. She looked over the handbook and was stressing pretty hard. I said, "meh, I'll be fine."
You could miss 6 out 36. She missed 5 and I missed....2.
The two I missed were, what is the blood alcohol level in which it is illegal to drive? The options were .05, .08, .10. I chose .05, for the state of california, the answer is .08. The other question I missed was When do you have to fill out a (SR1) form for the DMV. The answers were like 90 days past due registration, get in an accident and the damages are over $750, and getting a traffic violation. The answer is #2, I chose #1. Oh well, I got the "paperwork" questions wrong and actually undershot on the blood alcohol level one.
I just find humor in that I did nothing to prepare and got less wrong.
You could miss 6 out 36. She missed 5 and I missed....2.
The two I missed were, what is the blood alcohol level in which it is illegal to drive? The options were .05, .08, .10. I chose .05, for the state of california, the answer is .08. The other question I missed was When do you have to fill out a (SR1) form for the DMV. The answers were like 90 days past due registration, get in an accident and the damages are over $750, and getting a traffic violation. The answer is #2, I chose #1. Oh well, I got the "paperwork" questions wrong and actually undershot on the blood alcohol level one.
I just find humor in that I did nothing to prepare and got less wrong.
Monday, September 10, 2007
New TV
Marnie got a job and she starts today. The first priority after her getting a job was to get a TV for the front living room. We were sporting a 27 inch or so and it was small.
We headed to Sam's Club and got a Vizio. It's a 37 inch flat screen. It's pretty nice and was cheaper than the other ones.
Evidently we don't have Top Gun, so I went and used the Wizard of Oz. In hindsight, should have probably gone with a Star Wars.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
The Goal is 80%
Do you know why Monday Night Football is the most bet on game of the week? It's the last chance that these guys have to break even before they visit their bookie on Tuesday.
Yea, I watched Two for the Money again. I think I'm going to watch it every year before football season, it's a good sports betting movie. I'm also gonna make my picks every week. Like the title says, the goal is 80%. The bold are my picks.
Date & Time Favorite Spread Underdog
9/9 1:00 ET At Houston -3 Kansas City
9/9 1:00 ET Denver -3 At Buffalo
9/9 1:00 ET Pittsburgh -5 At Cleveland
9/9 1:00 ET At Jacksonville -7.5 Tennessee
9/9 1:00 ET At St. Louis -1 Carolina
9/9 1:00 ET Philadelphia -3 At Green Bay
9/9 1:00 ET At Minnesota -3 Atlanta
9/9 1:00 ET At Washington -3 Miami
9/9 1:00 ET New England -6.5 At NY Jets
9/9 4:15 ET At Seattle -6 Tampa Bay
9/9 4:15 ET At San Diego -6.5 Chicago
9/9 4:15 ET At Oakland -2.5 Detroit
9/9 8:15 ET At Dallas -6 NY Giants
Monday Night Football Point Spread
9/10 7:00 ET At Cincinnati -2.5 Baltimore
9/10 10:15 ET At San Francisco -3 Arizona
I think the lock of the week is the Pittsburgh game.
Yea, I watched Two for the Money again. I think I'm going to watch it every year before football season, it's a good sports betting movie. I'm also gonna make my picks every week. Like the title says, the goal is 80%. The bold are my picks.
Date & Time Favorite Spread Underdog
9/9 1:00 ET At Houston -3 Kansas City
9/9 1:00 ET Denver -3 At Buffalo
9/9 1:00 ET Pittsburgh -5 At Cleveland
9/9 1:00 ET At Jacksonville -7.5 Tennessee
9/9 1:00 ET At St. Louis -1 Carolina
9/9 1:00 ET Philadelphia -3 At Green Bay
9/9 1:00 ET At Minnesota -3 Atlanta
9/9 1:00 ET At Washington -3 Miami
9/9 1:00 ET New England -6.5 At NY Jets
9/9 4:15 ET At Seattle -6 Tampa Bay
9/9 4:15 ET At San Diego -6.5 Chicago
9/9 4:15 ET At Oakland -2.5 Detroit
9/9 8:15 ET At Dallas -6 NY Giants
Monday Night Football Point Spread
9/10 7:00 ET At Cincinnati -2.5 Baltimore
9/10 10:15 ET At San Francisco -3 Arizona
I think the lock of the week is the Pittsburgh game.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Stupid Stupid
It's a good thing I didn't start Buchholz today on my fantasy baseball team. Gawd I hate the redsox even more.
Friday, August 31, 2007
How Old Are You?
So I got one of these forwarded emails from a family member of mine. You know the ones. This particular one kinda set me off a bit, here is what it said and then I'll comment after it -
____________________________________
Stay with this -- the answer is at the end. It will blow you away.
One evening a grandson was talking to his grandfather about current events.The grandson asked his grandfather what he thought about the shootings at schools, the computer age, and just things in general. The Grandfather replied, "Well, let me think a minute, I was born before: television
penicillin
polio shots
frozen foods
Xerox
contact lenses
Frisbees
andthe pill
There were no:
credit cards
laser beams
orball-point pens
Man had not invented:
pantyhose
air conditioners
dishwashers
clothes dryers
and the clothes were hung out to dry in the fresh air
andman hadn't yet walked on the moon
Your Grandmother and I got married first, . . . and then lived together.
Every family had a father and a mother.
Until I was 25, I called every man older than me, "Sir".
And after I turned 25, I still called policemen and every man with a title, "Sir.
"We were before gay-rights, computer- dating, dual careers, daycare centers, and group therapy.
Our lives were governed by the Ten Commandments, good judgment, and common sense.
We were taught to know the difference between right and wrong and to stand up and take responsibility for our actions.
Serving your country was a privilege; living in this country was a bigger privilege.
We thought fast food was what people ate during Lent.
Having a meaningful relationship meant getting along with your cousins.
Draft dodgers were people who closed their front doors when the evening breeze started.
Time-sharing meant time the family spent together in the evenings and weekends-not purchasing condominiums.
We never heard of FM radios, tape decks, CDs, electric typewriters, yogurt, or guys wearing earrings. We listened to the Big Bands, Jack Benny, and the President's speeches on our radios. And I don't ever remember any kid blowing his brains out listening to Tommy Dorsey.
If you saw anything with 'Made in Japan' on it, it was junk
The term 'making out' referred to how you did on your school exam.
Pizza Hut, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of.
We had 5 &10-cent stores where you could actually buy things for 5 and 10 cents.
Ice-cream cones, phone calls, rides on a streetcar, and a Pepsi were all a nickel.
And if you didn't want to splurge, you could spend your nickel on enough stamps to mail 1 letter and 2 postcards.
You could buy a new Chevy Coupe for $600, . . . but who could afford one?
Too bad, because gas was 11 cents a gallon.
In my day:"grass" was mowed,
"coke" was a cold drink,
"pot" was something your mother cooked in
and"rock music" was your grandmother's lullaby.
"Aids" were helpers in the Principal's office,
" chip" meant a piece of wood,
"hardware" was found in a hardware store and
"software" wasn't even a word.
And we were the last generation to actually believe that a lady needed a husband to have a baby. No wonder people call us "old and confused" and say there is a generation gap...
and how old do you think I am?
I bet you have this very old man in mind...you are in for a shock!Read on to see -- pretty scary if you think about it and pretty sad at the same time.
Are you ready ?????
This man would be only 60 years old
__________________________________
So I kindly responded to my family member with "that's not all they had". They also had this little thing called apartheid. And that man that is 60 years old today, probably wouldn't have lived to see 60 back then, you know, without polio shots, penicillin and all that nonsense. I'm sure they also thought it was ok to beat their wives when they "got out of line a little" or even "take the kid out behind the shed to give him an attitude adjustment". yea...they had it so great back then compared to today. If anything, it was scarier to live back then.
____________________________________
Stay with this -- the answer is at the end. It will blow you away.
One evening a grandson was talking to his grandfather about current events.The grandson asked his grandfather what he thought about the shootings at schools, the computer age, and just things in general. The Grandfather replied, "Well, let me think a minute, I was born before: television
penicillin
polio shots
frozen foods
Xerox
contact lenses
Frisbees
andthe pill
There were no:
credit cards
laser beams
orball-point pens
Man had not invented:
pantyhose
air conditioners
dishwashers
clothes dryers
and the clothes were hung out to dry in the fresh air
andman hadn't yet walked on the moon
Your Grandmother and I got married first, . . . and then lived together.
Every family had a father and a mother.
Until I was 25, I called every man older than me, "Sir".
And after I turned 25, I still called policemen and every man with a title, "Sir.
"We were before gay-rights, computer- dating, dual careers, daycare centers, and group therapy.
Our lives were governed by the Ten Commandments, good judgment, and common sense.
We were taught to know the difference between right and wrong and to stand up and take responsibility for our actions.
Serving your country was a privilege; living in this country was a bigger privilege.
We thought fast food was what people ate during Lent.
Having a meaningful relationship meant getting along with your cousins.
Draft dodgers were people who closed their front doors when the evening breeze started.
Time-sharing meant time the family spent together in the evenings and weekends-not purchasing condominiums.
We never heard of FM radios, tape decks, CDs, electric typewriters, yogurt, or guys wearing earrings. We listened to the Big Bands, Jack Benny, and the President's speeches on our radios. And I don't ever remember any kid blowing his brains out listening to Tommy Dorsey.
If you saw anything with 'Made in Japan' on it, it was junk
The term 'making out' referred to how you did on your school exam.
Pizza Hut, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of.
We had 5 &10-cent stores where you could actually buy things for 5 and 10 cents.
Ice-cream cones, phone calls, rides on a streetcar, and a Pepsi were all a nickel.
And if you didn't want to splurge, you could spend your nickel on enough stamps to mail 1 letter and 2 postcards.
You could buy a new Chevy Coupe for $600, . . . but who could afford one?
Too bad, because gas was 11 cents a gallon.
In my day:"grass" was mowed,
"coke" was a cold drink,
"pot" was something your mother cooked in
and"rock music" was your grandmother's lullaby.
"Aids" were helpers in the Principal's office,
" chip" meant a piece of wood,
"hardware" was found in a hardware store and
"software" wasn't even a word.
And we were the last generation to actually believe that a lady needed a husband to have a baby. No wonder people call us "old and confused" and say there is a generation gap...
and how old do you think I am?
I bet you have this very old man in mind...you are in for a shock!Read on to see -- pretty scary if you think about it and pretty sad at the same time.
Are you ready ?????
This man would be only 60 years old
__________________________________
So I kindly responded to my family member with "that's not all they had". They also had this little thing called apartheid. And that man that is 60 years old today, probably wouldn't have lived to see 60 back then, you know, without polio shots, penicillin and all that nonsense. I'm sure they also thought it was ok to beat their wives when they "got out of line a little" or even "take the kid out behind the shed to give him an attitude adjustment". yea...they had it so great back then compared to today. If anything, it was scarier to live back then.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Blast from the Past #1
I am so conceeded that I tend to google myself and see what I come up with. Well, there are a lot of interesting links out there so I thought I would link some of them from my past.
Here is the one - Link
This is a tournament report from a Star Wars CCG touranment that took place in Tucson on October 2, 2000. Almost 7 years ago, I sat down across from Kiki and engaged him in a fight that would have determined the winner of the tournament. It was a hard fought match but it was Enrique's day to shine. He played well and deserved the victory. That deck that Kitani had was a great build too.
Here is the one - Link
This is a tournament report from a Star Wars CCG touranment that took place in Tucson on October 2, 2000. Almost 7 years ago, I sat down across from Kiki and engaged him in a fight that would have determined the winner of the tournament. It was a hard fought match but it was Enrique's day to shine. He played well and deserved the victory. That deck that Kitani had was a great build too.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Fantasy Football 08 Team #3
This is the last team that I have for this season and arguable, the most important. It is in my dad's Beeline Fantasy Football League. There is a lot on the line in this league. Outside of the money, there is, more importantly...respect.
Team Name - The Sushi Machine
I mean, have you tried a ZigZag roll?
QB - Tony Romo
RB - Shaun Alexander
RB - Travis Henry
WR - Roy Williams
WR - TJ Hoosyermamma
TE - Kellen Winslow
K - Nate Kaeding
DEF - San Diego
Bench
JP Losman
Michael Turner
Eric Moulds
Jason Witten
Josh Scobee
Raiders
I think that this is my strongest team. This is a big league as well, so the teams aren't as stacked and we have to carry 2x kicker, 2x defense on the roster. I'm pretty happy with the QB situation here. I have two guys who have huge potential upsides. They won't be as solid as a Peyton, but both have a higher chance to just go off on any given sunday. My RB are solid. My bench is on the weak side, but it's a big league. I think this team will perform the best out of my three teams. I will probably snap up a breakout WR in week 1/2 to replace old man moulds.
Team Name - The Sushi Machine
I mean, have you tried a ZigZag roll?
QB - Tony Romo
RB - Shaun Alexander
RB - Travis Henry
WR - Roy Williams
WR - TJ Hoosyermamma
TE - Kellen Winslow
K - Nate Kaeding
DEF - San Diego
Bench
JP Losman
Michael Turner
Eric Moulds
Jason Witten
Josh Scobee
Raiders
I think that this is my strongest team. This is a big league as well, so the teams aren't as stacked and we have to carry 2x kicker, 2x defense on the roster. I'm pretty happy with the QB situation here. I have two guys who have huge potential upsides. They won't be as solid as a Peyton, but both have a higher chance to just go off on any given sunday. My RB are solid. My bench is on the weak side, but it's a big league. I think this team will perform the best out of my three teams. I will probably snap up a breakout WR in week 1/2 to replace old man moulds.
Fantasy Football 08 Team #2
Team Name - Playtester Rage
The team name came from my days of experience when communicating with Playtesters and being a playtester myself. It always felt like there was no grey area, it was just always black or white, broken or sucks. This is for Trevor's league and I did this draft live...except for the part where I took Chester Taylor.
QB - Peyton Manning
WR - Roy Williams
WR - Hines Ward
WR - Vincent Jackson
RB - Travis Henry
RB - Marshawn Lynch
TE - Kellen Winslow
W/R - Marion Barber III
K - Robbie Gould
DEF - Dallas
Bench
Devery Henderson
Chester Taylor
Rex Grossman
Mushin Muhammad
Michael Turner
Ted Ginn Jr.
Meh...i'm pretty weak in the RB department overall, but Petyon slipped to like the 9th pick or so and I thought he was better than the RB that were available and I knew I could float Travis Henry around the wheel. I think that Lions WR (Williams/Johnson) are fine picks. I think with Mike Martz there, an improved pass blocking line, and a decently armed QB, the Lions will put up numbers on the scoreboard.
The team name came from my days of experience when communicating with Playtesters and being a playtester myself. It always felt like there was no grey area, it was just always black or white, broken or sucks. This is for Trevor's league and I did this draft live...except for the part where I took Chester Taylor.
QB - Peyton Manning
WR - Roy Williams
WR - Hines Ward
WR - Vincent Jackson
RB - Travis Henry
RB - Marshawn Lynch
TE - Kellen Winslow
W/R - Marion Barber III
K - Robbie Gould
DEF - Dallas
Bench
Devery Henderson
Chester Taylor
Rex Grossman
Mushin Muhammad
Michael Turner
Ted Ginn Jr.
Meh...i'm pretty weak in the RB department overall, but Petyon slipped to like the 9th pick or so and I thought he was better than the RB that were available and I knew I could float Travis Henry around the wheel. I think that Lions WR (Williams/Johnson) are fine picks. I think with Mike Martz there, an improved pass blocking line, and a decently armed QB, the Lions will put up numbers on the scoreboard.
Fantasy Football 08 Team #1
I stole this idea from Trevor, so here are my Fantasy Football teams.
Team Name - Chastrength
Team named after a typo in one of the Lord of the Rings TCG sets. Who knows how it got in there. This team is for Brian Fred's yahoo league. I got this team completely on auto draft.
QB - Jon Kitna
WR - Lee Evans
WR - Calvin Johnson
RB - Shaun Alexander
RB - Travis Henry
TE - Antonio Gates
W/R - Brandon Jacobs
K - Nate Kaeding
DEF - New England
Bench
Brett Favre
Joey Galloway
Kellen Winslow
Kevin Jones
Isaac Bruce
Jason Hanson
It's not bad. I seem to have a thing for Travis Henry this season. A good RB a couple years ago in a system that rewards RBs seems like a good matchup. Who knows...it could be a trap.
Team Name - Chastrength
Team named after a typo in one of the Lord of the Rings TCG sets. Who knows how it got in there. This team is for Brian Fred's yahoo league. I got this team completely on auto draft.
QB - Jon Kitna
WR - Lee Evans
WR - Calvin Johnson
RB - Shaun Alexander
RB - Travis Henry
TE - Antonio Gates
W/R - Brandon Jacobs
K - Nate Kaeding
DEF - New England
Bench
Brett Favre
Joey Galloway
Kellen Winslow
Kevin Jones
Isaac Bruce
Jason Hanson
It's not bad. I seem to have a thing for Travis Henry this season. A good RB a couple years ago in a system that rewards RBs seems like a good matchup. Who knows...it could be a trap.
Monday, August 20, 2007
GenCon wind down
Well, i'm sitting here in the lobby of the Marriot waiting for the taxi to come. It has been a great show. We got a great turnout for both WoW Nationals and the Vs. Pro Circuit.
I was able to see a lot of my friends at this convention. Chuck, Evan (I couldn't stop by and say hi, but I did see you), Kyle, Mark, Trevor, Mr. Beal, Matt Kirk, Charlie, and a couple blast from the pasts in Jon Vandermeer (yes, that Jon Vandermeer and yes, that infinite loop deck at Worlds '98) and the Terwilligers (they have all growed up). I also saw both Hunter brothers towering over everyone else. I was half expecting Jeremy Lamere to come strolling in. It was good to see some people back playing. I know that they will do well.
I did coverage over the weekend, you can find my handiwork here. It was fun doing coverage again, but man am I rusty.
Can you guess which Orc Shaman I am from the Dark Portal set in that picture? I'll give you a hint, he might double as a rogue borg.
I'm happy to be going back to sunny southern california (nice stench and humidity Indy...you cesspool). I have to nurse this cold back to health or Ant is going to kill me if I miss a day of work.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Phew
Ok...so I'm back, it's been a rough couple of weeks.
Right from ComicCon, I went to Arizona to move Marnie and the girls out to California. Got everything set up, ready to go, and confirmed. The movers got there on time and we were off to California by Tuesday afternoon.
On the road to California, the A/C in the jeep goes out. This sucked bad because it's super hot in the desert between Phoenix and San Diego. We move both dogs to the Uhaul and Marnie suffers in the Jeep. The Uhaul cab was pretty cramped with 2 dogs and me in it, but at least we had the air conditioning.
About half way to San Diego, I get a call on my cell phone. It's the apartment complex, our new apartment is flooded (water main broke) so we can't move into that one. They have another one set up for us. In the meantime, while we are on the road to San Diego, Marnie has to call SanDiego Gas/Electric, Cox Cable, etc. to get all of our information changed to the new apartment.
We make it to San Diego finally, the traffic is a bit ridiculous, but Marnie does a good job of keeping up (she doesn't like big city freeway traffic). We check into the hotel and get cleaned up. There is no A/C in the hotel and it's kind of humid out, but whatever.
The next morning, we drop off the Uhaul at the apt complex before heading to PetSmart for the girls grooming appt (babysitting while the movers get the stuff in the house). This is about 2 hours before we are scheduled to move in. We go into the office to let them know we arrived and we'll be back in 2 hours to move in. They say that our apt isn't ready and that we can stay in a model apt for the night. We say this is totally unacceptable. We have movers coming, cox cable coming, etc. They say that they'll reimburse for any problems, but we continue to push this as being unacceptable because we can't reschedule either because it's a ridiculous lead time. They pull some strings and get the carpet cleaners in there asap.
We get the paperwork signed and get into the apt. There is zero cell phone reception. We weren't given a chance to check out the apt before we signed and this was all they had so we were stuck. No phone sucked bad, the movers got a little lost so they were delayed. The Cox guy shows up and tells us that it's going to cost extra to get cable into the 2 bedrooms. We tell him that's not what the Cox operator said. He said he's sorry they are mistaken and that we can call them but we'll still have to pay etc. Ridiculous! The movers show and unload everything. We have a garage, but can't park either vehicle in there without significant manuevering that neither of us want to do on a regular basis. It's a small garage and the street is narrow and it's on the side of the street, yea...a pain in our ass.
There is no A/C in the apt and despite having 4 fans going and opening up all the windows, it's still pretty hot.
Went to Blizzcon last weekend, which was fun. Saw the Wrath of the Lich King expansion and played a bit and played a bit of Starcraft 2, but demoing for 12+ hours and gunslinging for 4+ hours over 2 days was a bit hellish.
On top of all this, I had a severe outbreak of the gout. So I have been in pain for the past 5-7 days or so.
It's been a week of hell, etc, but we are finally moved in.
Right from ComicCon, I went to Arizona to move Marnie and the girls out to California. Got everything set up, ready to go, and confirmed. The movers got there on time and we were off to California by Tuesday afternoon.
On the road to California, the A/C in the jeep goes out. This sucked bad because it's super hot in the desert between Phoenix and San Diego. We move both dogs to the Uhaul and Marnie suffers in the Jeep. The Uhaul cab was pretty cramped with 2 dogs and me in it, but at least we had the air conditioning.
About half way to San Diego, I get a call on my cell phone. It's the apartment complex, our new apartment is flooded (water main broke) so we can't move into that one. They have another one set up for us. In the meantime, while we are on the road to San Diego, Marnie has to call SanDiego Gas/Electric, Cox Cable, etc. to get all of our information changed to the new apartment.
We make it to San Diego finally, the traffic is a bit ridiculous, but Marnie does a good job of keeping up (she doesn't like big city freeway traffic). We check into the hotel and get cleaned up. There is no A/C in the hotel and it's kind of humid out, but whatever.
The next morning, we drop off the Uhaul at the apt complex before heading to PetSmart for the girls grooming appt (babysitting while the movers get the stuff in the house). This is about 2 hours before we are scheduled to move in. We go into the office to let them know we arrived and we'll be back in 2 hours to move in. They say that our apt isn't ready and that we can stay in a model apt for the night. We say this is totally unacceptable. We have movers coming, cox cable coming, etc. They say that they'll reimburse for any problems, but we continue to push this as being unacceptable because we can't reschedule either because it's a ridiculous lead time. They pull some strings and get the carpet cleaners in there asap.
We get the paperwork signed and get into the apt. There is zero cell phone reception. We weren't given a chance to check out the apt before we signed and this was all they had so we were stuck. No phone sucked bad, the movers got a little lost so they were delayed. The Cox guy shows up and tells us that it's going to cost extra to get cable into the 2 bedrooms. We tell him that's not what the Cox operator said. He said he's sorry they are mistaken and that we can call them but we'll still have to pay etc. Ridiculous! The movers show and unload everything. We have a garage, but can't park either vehicle in there without significant manuevering that neither of us want to do on a regular basis. It's a small garage and the street is narrow and it's on the side of the street, yea...a pain in our ass.
There is no A/C in the apt and despite having 4 fans going and opening up all the windows, it's still pretty hot.
Went to Blizzcon last weekend, which was fun. Saw the Wrath of the Lich King expansion and played a bit and played a bit of Starcraft 2, but demoing for 12+ hours and gunslinging for 4+ hours over 2 days was a bit hellish.
On top of all this, I had a severe outbreak of the gout. So I have been in pain for the past 5-7 days or so.
It's been a week of hell, etc, but we are finally moved in.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Are you a Mexican...or a Mexican't?
My favorite type cast actor of all time, Danny Trejo. He was signing for Planet Terror. Also notice the chick in the background. They hired a model, that was an actual amputee and they put a fake machine gun on the end of it.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Inside Joke
For those of you that used to be co-workers of mine, that phrase under the insanity gametext may look familiar.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Hey Arizona
You know what it is? I'll tell you what it's not! It's not 105 degrees right now.
BAHAHAHAHAHAHA
California 1 Arizona 0
BAHAHAHAHAHAHA
California 1 Arizona 0
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Take Girard out to the Ballgame
Caught this puppy as a ricochet in rightfield bleachers during batting practice. Went to see the Saturday night game vs. the Padres. Chris Young looked dominant early, gave up a couple of hits including a solo dinger to Tony Clark. They yanked him and the Dbacks went slap happy on Bell. Valverde came into close it down and there were fireworks afterwards. It was fun spending time with my dad at the ballpark.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Club Sevens opens this weekend
Club Sevens opens this weekend
The building might look familiar to some. I swear that was the same decor that was in it before.
The building might look familiar to some. I swear that was the same decor that was in it before.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
MIA
I have been missing in action. I promised people that I would update my progress at Pro Tour San Diego. I did embarassingly bad. I left for AZ on Saturday, not to look back. Had a good time in Arizona with friends/family. Went to see Transformers, it was a very good movie. It had some slapsticky comedy, but I enjoyed it. I'm sure that people that were expecting nothing short of the Piano will give it a bad review. I guess people are entitled to their incorrect opinion.
Back in California now and starting to really plan for Marnie's move out here at the end of this month.
Back in California now and starting to really plan for Marnie's move out here at the end of this month.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
You are...that guy!!!
Wow
I had such high expectations going into this movie and let me tell you, I was blown away. Not only did they not ruin every good one liner in the trailers, they didn't ruin all the explosions either! This movie was awesome on so many levels. This will probably make my top 10 in my movie list.
If you plan on seeing this film, do not expect a "logical/realistic" plot. I'm sure that there are people that might over think the plot but just go with it. "Sure, that might happen." The acting is great, the action is awesome, the big "gasp" moment at the end of the movie (you know what I'm talking about, the one that is in every Die Hard movie) is freaking cool. The Mac guy is well cast, Kevin Smith's character is awesome. This whole movie is just...just...well...awesome. It was well worth going to see the midnight showing. I can't wait to see it again.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Emo Girard
Picasso had his blue period, I have my emo period. This is me with my new hair color. Don't make me paint my nails and post on livejournal...cause I will.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Sunday, June 24, 2007
5 seconds of fame
I'm taking my 15 minutes of fame, 5 seconds at a time. Big props to Mr. Bahr for digging up this old fossil.
Friday, June 08, 2007
It's a Secret to ....Phil
So I've finally fully settled into the new position. Here is my second article that I have written for the TCG. I need to get more witty remarks in there.
Girard's article about the Alliance champs
Girard's article about the Alliance champs
Friday, May 25, 2007
Happy 30th Anniversary
I really should go up to the celebration this weekend, but I don't think I'll get the chance. I'm such a bad fan.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
In case you missed it...
a Brewers fan had some nice words to say about the New York Mets. I know that took a lot of effort and pride to say those things, so I will pay it forward and hope that the Brewers continue to pound...on the NL Central and well..the Braves too.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Ping: David Stern
Way to ruin the only series worth watching in the NBA playoffs. And you wonder why there are less viewers and people think the league is rigged.
Where are Bowen's and Duncan's suspensions?
Where are Bowen's and Duncan's suspensions?
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Weekend Trip to AZ
So I headed back to AZ for an extended vacation and to celebrate mine and marnie's 11th wedding anniversary. Wow...11 years and it seemed like just yesterday that we were taking off in the middle of the night to drive 8 hours to Cor'delane to get married. We celebrated by getting tattoos. This is Marnie's tattoo. Let's see if you can guess what movie that saying is from. Mr. Gaeta guessed it as soon as I told him.
This is a picture of mine. I got the King of Hearts on my right forearm. I was actually pretty worried over the past couple weeks. Marnie and I had talked about getting tattoos for awhile now and I didn't know if I wanted one on my forearm because of that whole stigma and being able to hold down an office job if I ever have to again. But then I was like...what the hell, you only live once. So this is it, it's a little shiny because I just put lotion on it.We also went to the zoo and I got to go to the Diamondbacks game vs. the Giants with my dad. We saw Bonds's HR #742 in the first inning. The Diamondbacks came back late in the game and won it all, despite Valverde almost giving it up. Overall, it was a pretty freaking awesome weekend.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
help Get Mike Fit
Well, it's time to embark on the weight loss trail. This time, I mean business though. There is money involved now, money that you could potentially make if I lag behind.
Get Mike Fit
If you go to that link, you will be able to see all the details of what I am talking about. Please be sure to read the First Post. It will explain where I'm coming from and where I am going.
Get Mike Fit
If you go to that link, you will be able to see all the details of what I am talking about. Please be sure to read the First Post. It will explain where I'm coming from and where I am going.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
I'd watch it
This is the true story, of seven strangers, picked to live in a guild, and have their lives taped, to find out what happens, when people stop QQIng, and start pew pewing. The Real World - WoW
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Disturbia
First off, it's very creepy to go and see a movie by yourself. This is the first time I have done this in a long time and it just feels...weird. I decided to unplug myself from The Game and go out and do something. I went to see Disturbia. This will be a mini review of what I experienced.
The Previews -
Resident Evil: Extinction - This trailer started off as a Las Vegas commercial and then it started to pan back. The commercial was on the MGM grand marquee and it slowly panned back to reveal a dust covered beat down Las Vegas Strip. The further it panned back, the more it revealed of the post-apocolyptic strip. I was getting gitty, I loved post apocolytpic movies, I live for them. Postman? I loved it. It kept going further and further out until it reached space and showed a satellite. On one of the solar panels was the Umbrella logo. I about jumped out of my seat cheering. They then cut to a Milla shot of her in tight shorts and loaded with guns. A bunch of action shots followed. I'm so going to this show, even if I have to go by myself.
28 weeks later - This is a sequel to the movie 28 weeks. A zombie movie set in England. The film is kinda shot "roughly" but I enjoyed it anyway. This one looks a bit more polished, so I'm going to see this one too. Nothing like a good zombie flick.
Transformers - I've seen this trailer but it was still good. Shai LeBouf is in this and it was recently announced that he will be in the new Indiana Jones movie as well. This is a Michael Bay film so I can expect nonstop action. I hope that it overshadows the fact that Bumblebee is a Camero.
Feature Presentation - *SPOILER ALERT*
I went into this movie expecting Texas Chainsaw Massacre and I got The Hand That Rocks The Cradle. It was suspenceful. I didn't care for Carrie Anne Moss's performance, but though that David Morse and Shai both did a good job. It did take more than a while to get going and it seemed like all the big action happened in the last 15 minutes or so. There were a couple of great cut away scenes that drew views down long hallways with the bad person coming into view or a lot of bad person emerges from the shadows shots. *ULTRA SPOILER ALERT* The bad guy didn't get up for a second try. I initially felt kind of annoyed that he didn't but then again, this really wasn't a big hack/slash type movie. It is a typical suspence type move, but they didnt' pull it. Also, when you go into these types of movies, you tend to (at least I do) try to pick up on little stuff that they'll tell you towards the beginning that you'll need to know in a time of dire need. They did a good job of going back to one of these tidbits and it was good that it wasn't the ultimate "out". I personally thought that they ran the "why didn't they try this" trick in the end by glossing over an obvious "out". Let's see if you can guess what it is.
So in the end I wasn't that scared. Maybe I'm just getting more used to movies like this. I can thanks Kyle and Evan for that. I was more scared when I came home to an empty 2 story house with the wind whistling and it being dark out. Not..a...fan.
The Previews -
Resident Evil: Extinction - This trailer started off as a Las Vegas commercial and then it started to pan back. The commercial was on the MGM grand marquee and it slowly panned back to reveal a dust covered beat down Las Vegas Strip. The further it panned back, the more it revealed of the post-apocolyptic strip. I was getting gitty, I loved post apocolytpic movies, I live for them. Postman? I loved it. It kept going further and further out until it reached space and showed a satellite. On one of the solar panels was the Umbrella logo. I about jumped out of my seat cheering. They then cut to a Milla shot of her in tight shorts and loaded with guns. A bunch of action shots followed. I'm so going to this show, even if I have to go by myself.
28 weeks later - This is a sequel to the movie 28 weeks. A zombie movie set in England. The film is kinda shot "roughly" but I enjoyed it anyway. This one looks a bit more polished, so I'm going to see this one too. Nothing like a good zombie flick.
Transformers - I've seen this trailer but it was still good. Shai LeBouf is in this and it was recently announced that he will be in the new Indiana Jones movie as well. This is a Michael Bay film so I can expect nonstop action. I hope that it overshadows the fact that Bumblebee is a Camero.
Feature Presentation - *SPOILER ALERT*
I went into this movie expecting Texas Chainsaw Massacre and I got The Hand That Rocks The Cradle. It was suspenceful. I didn't care for Carrie Anne Moss's performance, but though that David Morse and Shai both did a good job. It did take more than a while to get going and it seemed like all the big action happened in the last 15 minutes or so. There were a couple of great cut away scenes that drew views down long hallways with the bad person coming into view or a lot of bad person emerges from the shadows shots. *ULTRA SPOILER ALERT* The bad guy didn't get up for a second try. I initially felt kind of annoyed that he didn't but then again, this really wasn't a big hack/slash type movie. It is a typical suspence type move, but they didnt' pull it. Also, when you go into these types of movies, you tend to (at least I do) try to pick up on little stuff that they'll tell you towards the beginning that you'll need to know in a time of dire need. They did a good job of going back to one of these tidbits and it was good that it wasn't the ultimate "out". I personally thought that they ran the "why didn't they try this" trick in the end by glossing over an obvious "out". Let's see if you can guess what it is.
So in the end I wasn't that scared. Maybe I'm just getting more used to movies like this. I can thanks Kyle and Evan for that. I was more scared when I came home to an empty 2 story house with the wind whistling and it being dark out. Not..a...fan.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
mmmm....meat
First off, Props to Mr. Jay Webb. The man put together a group and made the reservations. He also chose a pretty damn good restaraunt.
Last weekend, we went to Fogo E Brasa for a dinner with friends. It was great to see my friends again. I missed some people that should have been there like Clark (sorry about the tooth) and Pup (obviously poker is more important than your friends.....tool). Those that were there, Jay, Steve, Mike Bahr and Stephanie, Webba and Krissy P...err Kristen, Dan, and of course Marnie.
We ate lots of meat. They have an appetizer bar with salad, egg salad, pot stickers, fried cheese, etc. Then the meat comes. They bring out skewer after skewer of meat and they cut you off a piece. Top sirloin, sausages, chicken, tri-tip, etc. It's sooo good. They got us with charging for desert, but whatever. It was good food and good people. I had a ton of fun and want to thank everyone that went.
Nice job Jay, nice job.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
All Is Right In The World
The Mets and Yankees are undefeated and the Red Sux haven't won a game all year.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Guess Who's Not an Amatuer anymore
ME!!!!!
Boston (Anthony Shaheen) and I won a PTQ in San Diego today. It was a two-headed giant qualifier and we did it, only losing 1 game all day. Here are a couple strats that we employed, that are probably unorthodox.
- Dominant Head -
I was tabbed friday afternoon for Anthony's partner because his previous partner tapped out. I accepted, but under 1 stipulation, I wouldn't be making any meaningful decisions. This was, of course, OK with Anthony. He made the decks, each turn, he analyzed the play and we made it, he drafted both our decks for Top 4 with little to no imput from me. With the exception of like 2 occurances, I did exactly what he told me. We felt this worked because in magic, there are usually alpha-type players. They feel they have a plan and they feel their plan is best so they want to fight for it. We were always on Anthony's plan so there was never, go down road A, stop halfway, go down road B and then never put anything meaningful together. We also felt we got at least 2 wins from our opponent's faltering and doing this. Sure, we got a lot crookeyes when Anthony was making every single call and I did what he told me too, but we won.
I think if more "casual" type players that could just as easily turn dudes sideways and don't have a super ego were paired with more experienced players, I think those teams would qualify more.
So there you have it, we Q'ed. I will officially no longer be a Magic Amatuer after Pro Tour San Diego. I'm pretty excited.
Boston (Anthony Shaheen) and I won a PTQ in San Diego today. It was a two-headed giant qualifier and we did it, only losing 1 game all day. Here are a couple strats that we employed, that are probably unorthodox.
- Dominant Head -
I was tabbed friday afternoon for Anthony's partner because his previous partner tapped out. I accepted, but under 1 stipulation, I wouldn't be making any meaningful decisions. This was, of course, OK with Anthony. He made the decks, each turn, he analyzed the play and we made it, he drafted both our decks for Top 4 with little to no imput from me. With the exception of like 2 occurances, I did exactly what he told me. We felt this worked because in magic, there are usually alpha-type players. They feel they have a plan and they feel their plan is best so they want to fight for it. We were always on Anthony's plan so there was never, go down road A, stop halfway, go down road B and then never put anything meaningful together. We also felt we got at least 2 wins from our opponent's faltering and doing this. Sure, we got a lot crookeyes when Anthony was making every single call and I did what he told me too, but we won.
I think if more "casual" type players that could just as easily turn dudes sideways and don't have a super ego were paired with more experienced players, I think those teams would qualify more.
So there you have it, we Q'ed. I will officially no longer be a Magic Amatuer after Pro Tour San Diego. I'm pretty excited.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Know What I Hate about ADD?
When you are in the shower, thinking of game/engine design and then you stop and think to yourself, am I done with the shower or did I just get in? At that point, when you can't remember if you are coming or going...I hate that. So with a death fear of being dirty because you didn't actually take a shower, you start the shower routine all over again.
Yea...I hate that.
Yea...I hate that.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Chapter 1
My eyes don't open, but I hear the sprinklers going off. It must be around quarter to seven. Those stupid things are like clockwork, every single day, even on Saturday. I feel the effects of the alcohol from last night and roll over to fall back asleep. The cool breeze blows through the window as I fall back asleep.
The alarm blares in my ear and I reach over to turn it off. I grab the cell phone and attempt to go through the motions, the alarm is still blaring. I sit up and continue to fiddle with the alarm on my cell phone. The siren dissipates as it goes by the house down the street. I slump over and stare of my phone and toss it aside. It misses the nightstand and falls to the floor. I think to myself, "Man, what a gyp. Sometimes it sucks to live in Oceanside." I swing my feet around and wipe my eyes. I find the remote to the TV and turn off the music channel. Hey, what do you want from me, it helps me sleep at night. I pay a flat rent, so it's covered in the money I fork over each month. I curl my toes on the rug and attempt to stand up. Obviously, I lose my balance and sit back down on the bed. There are some days when it's good to be just 29 years old and then there are those days that it's bad to be 400+ pounds of fun. I bet you can guess what today is. I tiptoe through the clothes strewn about all over the floor and bang my knee on the computer table as I make my way for the bedroom door. The sun is shining through the curtains as I open my bedroom door and make a beeline for the bathroom.
I'm on the first floor of a two story, 3 bedroom home right at the top of the hill before the Valley. It's good rent and my roomates are nice. I never see them, so that is what probably makes it work out better. Nobody appears to be up yet, which is no surprise for a Saturday morning. The roomies like to party sometimes, nothing wrong with that. I finally make it to the bathroom and close the door behind me. The sun is glaring through the tiny window above the shower. I shield my eyes and attempt to make sure it all gets in the toilet. I wipe my eyes one more time and glance over at the sink. What the hell? There is blood all over the inside of the sink. Not a small amount of blood either, this was a fair amount of blood, just spashed everywhere, including some on the mirror. What the heck is going on here. I finish my business, flush and head back to my room. I peer out of the small hallway between the bedroom and the bathroom, nobody is around. I'm going to get to the bottom of this. I was told this is my bathroom and that the traffic would be kept to a minimum. Where did all that blood come from? Did someone get hurt? I toss some shorts and my Reebok sleeveless T-shirt on and re-emerge, looking for answers. There is blood on the front door handle and a trail of blood leading to the kitchen. Nothing good can come of this. As I enter the kitchen, the water is running and the sliding glass door is busted. There is plenty of blood near the broken glass. This must be where it all came from. The party got to rowdy last night and someone fell through, or perhaps put through, the sliding glass door. I guess they haven't had time to clean it up. The blood trail leads right out to the garage. I reach for the door handle and open the door. I can't believe what I am seeing.
There, right in front of me, are my two roomates, Shawna and Dee, eating the other roommate, Dee's husband, Aaron. They are devouring him by hand. Blood and entrails strewn about the garage floor next to the car he was restoring. They are kneeling over him, gorging themselves. I choke back a gag reflex, covering my mouth. I guess it wasn't quiet enough, both of their heads snap to me. Their green glowing eyes staring right through me, with pieces of the inside of Aaron in their hands. Shawna screams at me at the top of her lungs and lunges towards me. The blood curdling scream snapped me back into reality. I slammed the door and threw the deadbolt to locked right as she slammed into it. What the hell was going on? Has the world gone mad? I fall to the floor, slipping on the still wet blood that is covering the the kitchen floor. It's like an ice skating rink, I turn over, attempt to get my feet under me and scamper back to my room. I quickly slam the door behind me and push the computer desk in front of the door. I stop a minute to control my breathing, I am practically gasping for every breath. I fumble for my phone and dial my wife, Marnie. No answer, I scream some sort of garbage into the phone, the only discernable words being "call me as soon as possible". Where do I go from here. I pull back the curtains just enough to see out the window. They are everywhere. People walking with blank stares, seemingly mindless. A woman runs down the street screaming. The neighbor appears from behind the bushes and tackles her. Her screams are drowned out as he begins to tear into her flesh. A few other "people" emerge from down the street and they begin to rip her limb from limb. I had to get out of here...I had to get to Arizona to Marnie.
The alarm blares in my ear and I reach over to turn it off. I grab the cell phone and attempt to go through the motions, the alarm is still blaring. I sit up and continue to fiddle with the alarm on my cell phone. The siren dissipates as it goes by the house down the street. I slump over and stare of my phone and toss it aside. It misses the nightstand and falls to the floor. I think to myself, "Man, what a gyp. Sometimes it sucks to live in Oceanside." I swing my feet around and wipe my eyes. I find the remote to the TV and turn off the music channel. Hey, what do you want from me, it helps me sleep at night. I pay a flat rent, so it's covered in the money I fork over each month. I curl my toes on the rug and attempt to stand up. Obviously, I lose my balance and sit back down on the bed. There are some days when it's good to be just 29 years old and then there are those days that it's bad to be 400+ pounds of fun. I bet you can guess what today is. I tiptoe through the clothes strewn about all over the floor and bang my knee on the computer table as I make my way for the bedroom door. The sun is shining through the curtains as I open my bedroom door and make a beeline for the bathroom.
I'm on the first floor of a two story, 3 bedroom home right at the top of the hill before the Valley. It's good rent and my roomates are nice. I never see them, so that is what probably makes it work out better. Nobody appears to be up yet, which is no surprise for a Saturday morning. The roomies like to party sometimes, nothing wrong with that. I finally make it to the bathroom and close the door behind me. The sun is glaring through the tiny window above the shower. I shield my eyes and attempt to make sure it all gets in the toilet. I wipe my eyes one more time and glance over at the sink. What the hell? There is blood all over the inside of the sink. Not a small amount of blood either, this was a fair amount of blood, just spashed everywhere, including some on the mirror. What the heck is going on here. I finish my business, flush and head back to my room. I peer out of the small hallway between the bedroom and the bathroom, nobody is around. I'm going to get to the bottom of this. I was told this is my bathroom and that the traffic would be kept to a minimum. Where did all that blood come from? Did someone get hurt? I toss some shorts and my Reebok sleeveless T-shirt on and re-emerge, looking for answers. There is blood on the front door handle and a trail of blood leading to the kitchen. Nothing good can come of this. As I enter the kitchen, the water is running and the sliding glass door is busted. There is plenty of blood near the broken glass. This must be where it all came from. The party got to rowdy last night and someone fell through, or perhaps put through, the sliding glass door. I guess they haven't had time to clean it up. The blood trail leads right out to the garage. I reach for the door handle and open the door. I can't believe what I am seeing.
There, right in front of me, are my two roomates, Shawna and Dee, eating the other roommate, Dee's husband, Aaron. They are devouring him by hand. Blood and entrails strewn about the garage floor next to the car he was restoring. They are kneeling over him, gorging themselves. I choke back a gag reflex, covering my mouth. I guess it wasn't quiet enough, both of their heads snap to me. Their green glowing eyes staring right through me, with pieces of the inside of Aaron in their hands. Shawna screams at me at the top of her lungs and lunges towards me. The blood curdling scream snapped me back into reality. I slammed the door and threw the deadbolt to locked right as she slammed into it. What the hell was going on? Has the world gone mad? I fall to the floor, slipping on the still wet blood that is covering the the kitchen floor. It's like an ice skating rink, I turn over, attempt to get my feet under me and scamper back to my room. I quickly slam the door behind me and push the computer desk in front of the door. I stop a minute to control my breathing, I am practically gasping for every breath. I fumble for my phone and dial my wife, Marnie. No answer, I scream some sort of garbage into the phone, the only discernable words being "call me as soon as possible". Where do I go from here. I pull back the curtains just enough to see out the window. They are everywhere. People walking with blank stares, seemingly mindless. A woman runs down the street screaming. The neighbor appears from behind the bushes and tackles her. Her screams are drowned out as he begins to tear into her flesh. A few other "people" emerge from down the street and they begin to rip her limb from limb. I had to get out of here...I had to get to Arizona to Marnie.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Mah Top 5
So Capt. Cheese started another one. This is my list of of my top 5 favorite/fun/interesting cards from a TCG/CCG.
5. *insert title here* - World of Warcraft TCG - This card is coming out in the next expansion and I can't spoil it yet. I will update this post when it has been revealed.
4. Wormhole -Star Trek CCG- I used this card to grief many opponents in Star Trek CCG 1st Edition. They often found their crew/ship at the Montana Missile Complex.
3. Howling Mine - Magic:TheGathering- Simple, elegant card design and a strong game effect. It has been a favorite of mine for years.
2. More Than Meets the Eye - Star Trek CCG 2nd Edition - This was the first card that I ever "officially" designed in my game design career that was printed. It wasn't the best card in the set, probably not even a "good" card, but it was my first and you always remember your first.
1. Droid Merchant - Star Wars CCG - This card almost single handedly jump my "TCG" career ahead 5 years. And it was probably the most fun I've ever had playing a deck.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
New Hire
This actually happened last week, but I waited a bit for it to be official.
I was hired on officially by Upper Deck this past Monday. I am an Associate Game Designer. A bit of a step down from Lead Game Design at The Company, but this is a bigger company and more room for advancement, so I'm willing to start out on the ground floor, etc.
I'm pretty happy and official now. For those of you that knew I had an issue, I will be posting a copy of my business card as soon as I get them. And I'll make sure to give Scott G. a couple copies, you know...for all those that he lent me over the years.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Grats!
Marnie's sister, Megan and her husband Craig are proud parents of a beautiful new baby girl. Her name is Addisyn. She was born this morning at 4:21am and was 8 pounds 4 ounces.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Go Tell a Spartan
This movie kicked so much ass I don't even know where to begin. There is plenty of blood, boobs, more blood, action, honor, and pride.
I definitely will see this movie more than once this year.
FOR SPARTA!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
YO JOE
Great News
I'm excited already. I think Mark Wahlberg would make a great Duke. The thing that I'm concerned about is the "prequal"ness of the proposed plot. I hope there will be plenty of action, with just a little bit of scheming.
I'm excited already. I think Mark Wahlberg would make a great Duke. The thing that I'm concerned about is the "prequal"ness of the proposed plot. I hope there will be plenty of action, with just a little bit of scheming.
Monday, March 05, 2007
April 23rd????? Noooooo!!!!!!
I don't know if I can wait that long. The cliffhanger at the end of this episode kinda gave some stuff away.
I do hope they off a couple more heroes for this season and start next season with just a handful of them.
My theories -
Peter doesn't die, but neither does Sylar
And I wonder if Soran still has the Trilithium or if there was even any trilithium to begin with.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Top 5 Baddies
Following in The Cheese's footsteps and listing my top 5 favorite villains. Now, I may have the definition wrong, I remember having a conversation back in the day with Mr. Lischke about what the term "villain" means and that it is not synonymous with "bad guy". Here is my list -
5. Nurse Mildred Ratched - One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
4. Simon Phoenix - Demolition Man
3. Darwin and Minerva Mayflower - Hudson Hawk
2. Lo Pan - Big Trouble in Little China
1. Zorg - The Fifth Element
- I mean c'mon, did you really expect anyone else to show up as #1?
5. Nurse Mildred Ratched - One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
4. Simon Phoenix - Demolition Man
3. Darwin and Minerva Mayflower - Hudson Hawk
2. Lo Pan - Big Trouble in Little China
1. Zorg - The Fifth Element
- I mean c'mon, did you really expect anyone else to show up as #1?
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
You know it's time to shave your head when...
...Jeff Donais walks up to you and says "Girard, your hair feels so soft"....while he pets your head.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Thank You
I finished watching all the seasons of Oz on Netflix so now I am going to make my way through my que.
First up is Thank You for Not Smoking. I really enjoyed this movie. I think it was mostly because I have thought about what it would be like to be a lobbyist. I like to think that I have the moral flexability to defend pretty much anything and I have been told, in the past, that I am not a bad salesman.
I think this also might make it into my top 100 movie list, I enjoyed it that much.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Rich Get Richer
Well, I'd be lying if I said this season's theme didn't intrigue me. I am still waiting for that stereotypical, underdog, despite all odds win from Ravu, but it hasn't come yet. Moto still continues to wreck shop, despite having Papa Smurf barely making it.
Which brings me to the next point. I have no sympathy for people who aren't mentally or physically prepared for this game. That whiny Emo chick that had to leave, well, maybe she shouldn't have come in the first place. I realize the guy that fell in the fire had to be medivac'ed out, so I don't bare any ill will towards him, but Papa Smurf, that's a different story. Yes, you are older. Did you prepare for this show? I mean, I don't think I would go on the show unless I had some preparations going in so I wouldn't have health problems, etc. Maybe it's from the cracked rib when he fell on the slippery stuff...who knows. The medical team didn't find anything wrong with him.
As for picking a horse, I don't feel comfortable yet. I can tell you it's not going to be Rocky. That guy is waay to cocky and arrogant to make it far in this game. Right now I'm leaning towards Alex or Mookie.
Which brings me to the next point. I have no sympathy for people who aren't mentally or physically prepared for this game. That whiny Emo chick that had to leave, well, maybe she shouldn't have come in the first place. I realize the guy that fell in the fire had to be medivac'ed out, so I don't bare any ill will towards him, but Papa Smurf, that's a different story. Yes, you are older. Did you prepare for this show? I mean, I don't think I would go on the show unless I had some preparations going in so I wouldn't have health problems, etc. Maybe it's from the cracked rib when he fell on the slippery stuff...who knows. The medical team didn't find anything wrong with him.
As for picking a horse, I don't feel comfortable yet. I can tell you it's not going to be Rocky. That guy is waay to cocky and arrogant to make it far in this game. Right now I'm leaning towards Alex or Mookie.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Friday, February 09, 2007
Me and the honey
When we went to Rawhide. I received 2 certificates, one for eating Rattlesnake and the other for eating Rocky Mountain Oysters.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Random Picture
This is my awesome niece making like she's part of the scury crew. This was when we were in Vegas and playing some mini golf in the Adventure Dome.Grandma's Boy
I have been watching this movie quite a bit lately because it has been on one of the movie channels and it's better than some chickflick on the other movie channels.
This movie is pretty dang funny. Other than the gratutious drug references and actual scenes of smoking pot, this movie will probably crack my top 100 list. The main reason being is that the main character works as..get this...a game designer. He works for a fictious company called Brainasium. There are a lot of similarities in this movie to a number of people that I work with or have worked with in the past.
I laugh everytime I watch it and thoroughly enjoy it. I'll let you try and guess who I think is who from the movie.
Grandma's Boy on IMDB
This movie is pretty dang funny. Other than the gratutious drug references and actual scenes of smoking pot, this movie will probably crack my top 100 list. The main reason being is that the main character works as..get this...a game designer. He works for a fictious company called Brainasium. There are a lot of similarities in this movie to a number of people that I work with or have worked with in the past.
I laugh everytime I watch it and thoroughly enjoy it. I'll let you try and guess who I think is who from the movie.
Grandma's Boy on IMDB
Sunday, January 28, 2007
DING!!!!!
I'm finally ready to rejoin the rest of the world. But first, I trip to urgent care for my nice ear infection I got over the weekend.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
The Hills at night
So...if you know me, you know I have an issue with scary movies. I mean, when I was younger, I was scared to death every time the Thriller video would come on. And then V hit and they ate the Guinea Pigs and I lost it. So we fast forward to today. It's 12:30am. I should be asleep, instead I just finished up grinding to 3/4 of the way through 64 (longest...level....ever). I figured I would unwind with a movie, I scroll through the movie channels and find, the Hills Have Eyes. I knew I should have kept on scrolling.
I watched it....all of it. A buddy of mine gave a review on it and he was pretty spot on about most of it. The dropping of the gun next to the "dead" bad guy was terrible. I actually thought it was the married sister who seemed to be the level headed one was going to be the survivor. The blowing away of the mother, the fire scene, the dude waking up after taking one in the head were all pretty good "holy freaking crap" scenes. The rest of it was pretty predictible. I don't think it was as bad as Mr. Heimlich's...err sorry, Dr. Heimlich (Yea I know you didn't go to years of doctor school to be referred as mister) assessment.
Speaking of which, I don't think I would have been able to sit down and watch this movie (despite my heart beating out of my chest) without the expertise of Kyle/Evan. They sat me down in October a couple years ago and it was " a scary movie a night". This was the first time I've seen Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Halloween, etc.
I watched it....all of it. A buddy of mine gave a review on it and he was pretty spot on about most of it. The dropping of the gun next to the "dead" bad guy was terrible. I actually thought it was the married sister who seemed to be the level headed one was going to be the survivor. The blowing away of the mother, the fire scene, the dude waking up after taking one in the head were all pretty good "holy freaking crap" scenes. The rest of it was pretty predictible. I don't think it was as bad as Mr. Heimlich's...err sorry, Dr. Heimlich (Yea I know you didn't go to years of doctor school to be referred as mister) assessment.
Speaking of which, I don't think I would have been able to sit down and watch this movie (despite my heart beating out of my chest) without the expertise of Kyle/Evan. They sat me down in October a couple years ago and it was " a scary movie a night". This was the first time I've seen Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Halloween, etc.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Freaking Quasimoto
So imagine if you will, the pain you feel when someone punches you really hard in the arm. It stings and then eventually goes away. It makes your arm feel like dead weight in the interim. Now...imagine someone does that to the top of your foot, but it doesn't go away. It just continues to feel like dead weight and you don't want to move it because if you do in the slightest, it will be very very painful. So you have to practically drag your foot behind you for fear of actually bending at a joint and passing out from pain.
That's pretty much what it feels like to have the gout.
That's pretty much what it feels like to have the gout.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Keeper League - Baseball
So I joined a co-workers keeper league. This is the first time I have been in a keeper league, here is my current team. I get to keep 5 of these peeps.
C Kenji Johjima SEA
DH David Ortiz BOS
2B Jeff Kent LA
Aramis Ramirez CHC
Miguel Tejada BAL
Carl Crawford TB
Ken Griffey Jr CIN
Magglio Ordonez DET
Austin Kearns WAS
Adam Laroche ATL
Tom Glavine NYM
Kyle Lohse CIN
John Maine NYM
Joe Saunders ANA
Bobby Jenks CHW
Brad Lidge HOU
Takashi Saito LA
Jason Varitek BOS
Carlos Guillen DET
Randy Johnson ARI
Cliff Lee CLE
Jared Weaver ANA
Dontrelle Willis FLA
These are the ones that I am thinking of keeping for this season -
SP John Maine
SP Dontrelle Willis
RP Brad Lidge
DH David Ortiz (ugh)
LF Carl Crawford
What do you think?
C Kenji Johjima SEA
DH David Ortiz BOS
2B Jeff Kent LA
Aramis Ramirez CHC
Miguel Tejada BAL
Carl Crawford TB
Ken Griffey Jr CIN
Magglio Ordonez DET
Austin Kearns WAS
Adam Laroche ATL
Tom Glavine NYM
Kyle Lohse CIN
John Maine NYM
Joe Saunders ANA
Bobby Jenks CHW
Brad Lidge HOU
Takashi Saito LA
Jason Varitek BOS
Carlos Guillen DET
Randy Johnson ARI
Cliff Lee CLE
Jared Weaver ANA
Dontrelle Willis FLA
These are the ones that I am thinking of keeping for this season -
SP John Maine
SP Dontrelle Willis
RP Brad Lidge
DH David Ortiz (ugh)
LF Carl Crawford
What do you think?
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Some New Years Footage
This is what happens when you fall asleep too early. You get pounced on....by rather large men. Ok..DaPengiun isn't really large.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
First Loss
Well it had to come sometime or another. I finally lost at the credit card game. This is a new game I have learned while living in California and working with a bunch of gamers. This bunch of gamers is different than the last bunch that I worked with, not necessarily better, just a bigger game.
So the way this game works, is you have a bill after eating. The more people, the bigger the bill. Each person that wants to play needs to pitch in a credit card. A person shuffles up the credit cards and holds them out of sight and someone picks a number. That number in the rotation is safe, so that credit card is given back to the person and he or she isn't paying. For instance, if 3 is picked, the person with the cards counts off from the top of the stack until he hits the third card. You repeat the process until there is only 1 card left and that person picks up the tab.
I'm a gambling man, so this game really appealed to me. Up until yesterday, I had never lost and to be sure, I was getting pretty filthy with my bids. Last week, we had Sushi Taisho. My bill was about 6 bones and the entire thing was like $120+ because someone got dirrty with the rolls (Kibler). I had horrible odds, but there were like 4 people that gamed it and I was feeling good about my odds. I didn't have to pick it up, Kibler ended up taking it home. Yesterday, we went to the sports bar and after some gaming of BR and I (I broke even, I had Detroit and 8 points, they lost by 12+ and he had GS and 1 point for the first quarter), the bill came. Ant and Gary didn't want to game so I heads up'd it with BR. I lost and that was the first time that I had lost the credit card game.
It's pretty fun, I didn't feel bad losing because I'm still up. Silly gamers and their big games.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
My thoughts go out
...to a loved one. I recently had a loved one fall ill of http://www.bellspalsy.ws/. He/she is doing ok and has seen a doctor about it. The doctor is optimistic that he'll/she'll recover in a couple weeks because he/she saw a physician so early in the process (evidently people wait a day or two to see if it clears up itself). It is not life threatening (that we know of).
He/she has to wear an eye patch though, which is kinda humorous. I hope he/she gets better and my thoughts go out to him/her.
He/she has to wear an eye patch though, which is kinda humorous. I hope he/she gets better and my thoughts go out to him/her.
2007 is here and I tried something new
So since I have been working at Upper deck, I have been to http://www.sushitaisho.signonsandiego.com/1.html just once. I ordered the Chicken Teriyaki bowl and was pretty closed minded about the Sushi. My standing was that it had a lot of vegtables and I was probably going to choke on the seaweed.
Fast forward to today. We all head to Sushi Taisho for lunch. I get the chicken teriyaki bowl and start eyeing Kibler's roll when it shows up. I talk to Danny about it and I decide that I am ready to go and give it a try.
I had the following -
Zig Zag RollSpicy snow crab soft shell crab avocado & cream cheese wrapped in soy paper and a Ninja RollSpicy tuna double-wrapped seaweed lightly fried in panko and dressed w/eel sauce. Just a couple pieces of each. Not to shabby, I am looking forward to the next time we go.
Fast forward to today. We all head to Sushi Taisho for lunch. I get the chicken teriyaki bowl and start eyeing Kibler's roll when it shows up. I talk to Danny about it and I decide that I am ready to go and give it a try.
I had the following -
Zig Zag RollSpicy snow crab soft shell crab avocado & cream cheese wrapped in soy paper and a Ninja RollSpicy tuna double-wrapped seaweed lightly fried in panko and dressed w/eel sauce. Just a couple pieces of each. Not to shabby, I am looking forward to the next time we go.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Dirt Bikes and cahwazy drivers
So I came back to Cali yesterday. It's roughly a 5 and a half hour drive and I have done it plenty of times now that I have the quickest way (actually through Maricopa to the 8, not out the 10 to the 85 to the 8).
Upon my trips, I go by the sand dunes right outside of Yuma...twice. Once going to AZ and then coming back. Since I tend to travel during peak travel times, there is a lot of "dune traffic". I have an opinion about who these types of people are (yes, I am one to jump to quick assumptions about stereotypes). They drive these big RVs, toying a rack of bikes/4-wheelers/golf carts that are jackedup 6+ inches with mag wheels on them. They also drive them like they are the pickup trucks.
One in particular. It was a newer SUV. It cut me off coming on the highway from Gordon's Well. I was going at a pretty quick clip. I get over in the fast lane and let him on with no issues, but then he swerves into my lane almost immediately. I slam on my breaks and swerve into the other lane. Thankfully there was no one there. He pulls up along side of me, his buddy laughs at me and flips me off. I speed up to get away from them and they speed up. I slow down and they keep on going.
I curse them, but then I'm ok, they are gone and I'm back on the straight and narrow back to Cali. I pick them up again coming off an El Centro on ramp. They don't do anything this time, but there is another white Mitsubishi Galant keeping up with me and we blow by the SUV. He doesn't give chase until the hills (right around the Golden Acorn). He's playing cat and mouse with traffic and not getting anywhere. Traffic starts to get heavier than it already was and then it happened. He cuts of the Galant in front of me and slams on his breaks (to the point of smoke). The Galant in front of me does the same and I do the same, he and I have to swerve left into the rumble-bumps in order to miss the SUV. There was no traffic in front of the SUV. I almost lost my lunch. I was going to get out of the car but the SUV sped away. The Galant and I gave chase. The SUV exited and the Galant in front of me followed it. I hope he kicked the crap out of them.
They had a sticker on the back of the window that said "Desert Rats like it dirty". I hate Dirt bikers.
Upon my trips, I go by the sand dunes right outside of Yuma...twice. Once going to AZ and then coming back. Since I tend to travel during peak travel times, there is a lot of "dune traffic". I have an opinion about who these types of people are (yes, I am one to jump to quick assumptions about stereotypes). They drive these big RVs, toying a rack of bikes/4-wheelers/golf carts that are jackedup 6+ inches with mag wheels on them. They also drive them like they are the pickup trucks.
One in particular. It was a newer SUV. It cut me off coming on the highway from Gordon's Well. I was going at a pretty quick clip. I get over in the fast lane and let him on with no issues, but then he swerves into my lane almost immediately. I slam on my breaks and swerve into the other lane. Thankfully there was no one there. He pulls up along side of me, his buddy laughs at me and flips me off. I speed up to get away from them and they speed up. I slow down and they keep on going.
I curse them, but then I'm ok, they are gone and I'm back on the straight and narrow back to Cali. I pick them up again coming off an El Centro on ramp. They don't do anything this time, but there is another white Mitsubishi Galant keeping up with me and we blow by the SUV. He doesn't give chase until the hills (right around the Golden Acorn). He's playing cat and mouse with traffic and not getting anywhere. Traffic starts to get heavier than it already was and then it happened. He cuts of the Galant in front of me and slams on his breaks (to the point of smoke). The Galant in front of me does the same and I do the same, he and I have to swerve left into the rumble-bumps in order to miss the SUV. There was no traffic in front of the SUV. I almost lost my lunch. I was going to get out of the car but the SUV sped away. The Galant and I gave chase. The SUV exited and the Galant in front of me followed it. I hope he kicked the crap out of them.
They had a sticker on the back of the window that said "Desert Rats like it dirty". I hate Dirt bikers.
Monday, January 01, 2007
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE
First off, I did something very stupid tonite. After about a half an hour lying awake at a friend's house, I drove home....after a fair bit of drinking. To be honest, this was probably a mistake in my judgement. I made it home and I'm ok and I was probably the soberest of people on the road. I drank a bunch of water/soda before I snuck out.
As for my last post of 2o06, the year was certainly interesting. I found a new job, same career. Something that I love doing and I think that I'm not too shabby at (even though some other people think that I'm not good at it). I am still married and I love my wife Marnie and our two dogs. But let's not look at the past, let's look to the future.
In the coming days, I will be posting interviews of people some people that I know and that know me (friends and family). I did a bit of camera work over the break. Did a couple of interviews and I am going to post them to my blog along with what I think/feel about the person. I didn't get a chance to do everyone that I would have liked to do, but it is an ongoing project and I hope to continue it, especially for people that I haven't had a chance to get that I should absolutely interview before our time is up.
Again....happy new year and may your 2007 be as good, if not better than your 2006.
As for my last post of 2o06, the year was certainly interesting. I found a new job, same career. Something that I love doing and I think that I'm not too shabby at (even though some other people think that I'm not good at it). I am still married and I love my wife Marnie and our two dogs. But let's not look at the past, let's look to the future.
In the coming days, I will be posting interviews of people some people that I know and that know me (friends and family). I did a bit of camera work over the break. Did a couple of interviews and I am going to post them to my blog along with what I think/feel about the person. I didn't get a chance to do everyone that I would have liked to do, but it is an ongoing project and I hope to continue it, especially for people that I haven't had a chance to get that I should absolutely interview before our time is up.
Again....happy new year and may your 2007 be as good, if not better than your 2006.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
